UK Investigates Genetic Factors Linking Obesity Medications and Pancreatitis Risk

The United Kingdom is currently examining potential genetic factors that may increase the risk of pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis) in patients using obesity medications such as Wegovy and Zepbound. Healthcare authorities are requesting individuals who experienced severe pancreatic inflammation after taking these drugs to undergo testing to determine if genetic predispositions contribute to the adverse effects.

In collaboration with Genomics England, the UK's drug regulator is exploring whether certain genetic profiles make some people more susceptible to acute pancreatitis, a potentially serious and life-threatening condition. Patients who have been hospitalized with pancreatitis while on GLP-1 receptor agonists, including medications like Ozempic (sold by Novo Nordisk) and Mounjaro (by Lilly), are encouraged to report their cases to the Yellow Card Biobank—a program aimed at monitoring drug safety.

Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are actively collecting safety data related to their drugs, which are prescribed for diabetes and obesity management. While these medications have proven effective, they carry the risk of serious side effects such as pancreatic inflammation and even death in rare cases. Most reports associate pancreatitis with the use of drugs containing GLP-1 receptor agonists, including tirzepatide and semaglutide.

The pancreas, a vital gland located behind the stomach, can become inflamed rapidly, leading to complications that require immediate medical attention. Although most cases of drug-induced pancreatitis tend to resolve quickly, some patients experience severe outcomes, including fatalities. Reports indicate that five patients taking Lilly's medications and one on Novo Nordisk's drugs succumbed to the condition.

Experts emphasize that adverse reactions could be influenced by individual genetic differences, potentially allowing for personalized risk assessments in the future. Matt Brown, chief scientific officer at Genomics England, highlighted the possibility of reducing side effects by understanding genetic factors involved.

Data from the UK's Yellow Card system show 181 cases of acute pancreatitis and 113 cases of chronic pancreatitis related to tirzepatide, with five deaths reported among Lilly's drug users and one death linked to Novo Nordisk's medication. It is important to note that adverse event reports only suggest a suspected link, not conclusive causality.

Patient safety remains a top priority, and physicians are advised to prescribe these medications only for their approved indications, under strict medical supervision, especially for patients with a history of pancreatitis. The ongoing investigation aims to deepen understanding of how genetic factors influence the risk of pancreatitis in patients using GLP-1-based therapies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-uk-probes-genetic-link-obesity.html